Radiesse®

Introduction to Radiesse®

Radiesse® is a synthetic injectable filler that has been FDA-approved to reduce moderate to severe wrinkles, folds and creases around the nose and mouth by augmenting the skin’s natural collagen supply. It is a safe, effective and long-lasting alternative to injectable collagen and other dermal fillers. Effects are found in both smoothing wrinkles plus adding volume and contour to the face for an overall younger, fuller, smoother appearance. With just one or two Radiesse® treatments, you can enjoy a beautiful, natural look that lasts.

Why Choose Dr. Balle?

At your Radiesse® treatment, Dr. Balle will clean the treatment area and administer a series of quick injections with a super fine needle. Treatments typically take 15 minutes and require only local anesthetic. Dr. Balle personally administers Radiesse®, and all other injectables available to his patients. There is little to no downtime and most patients return to their normal activities after their appointment. Patients typically need only one or two treatments to achieve the full effect of Radiesse® and Dr. Balle will determine whether whether you would benefit from additional treatments. Dr. Balle was chosen by Merz Aesthetics, the maker of Radiesse®, to teach and train other physicians nationally on the appropriate injection techniques for Radiesse®. You can be sure you are in expert hands with Dr. Balle, whose vast experience with these procedures has serviced Southeast Michigan at his Grosse Pointe Dermatology office for many years.

What is Radiesse® made of?

Radiesse® is composed of microspheres in a water-based gel. The microspheres – made of a substance called calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) – stimulate the production of collagen to smooth lines and wrinkles as well as add younger-looking suppleness to the face. Radiesse® is made from minerals similar to what makes up our bones. There is no need for pre-treatment allergy testing, and it is absorbed naturally by the body over time.

What areas does Radiesse® treat?

Radiesse® can be used on many areas of the face and body. Numerous studies have shown Radiesse® to be especially effective for filling and correcting smile lines, nasolabial folds (lines from the nose to the corners of the mouth), marionette lines (from the corners of the mouth to the chin), and other lines and wrinkles around the nose and mouth. It can also be used as an important tool in a “liquid facelift” as well as treatment for elevating the eyebrows, corners of the mouth and depressed scars.

Radiesse® has also been approved by the FDA to restore and correct the signs of lipoatrophy (loss of fat beneath the skin) in patients with HIV.

Are there any side effects?

Side effects such as mild irritation, itching, swelling, discoloration or tenderness at the injection site are minimal and should fade within a few days.

When will I see the results of my Radiesse® treatment?

How long do results last? Results are visible immediately after the injection and can last for up to a year or more. Touch-up treatments can prolong Radiesse’s effects. Studies have shown that patients require fewer re-treatments with Radiesse® than with other leading dermal fillers. Dr. Balle may recommend a follow-up appointment to determine whether you would benefit from additional treatments.